Salt Generators & Cells

Salt Generators & Cells, Salt Chlorinators & Chlorine Generators

Salt chlorine generators, also known as saltwater chlorinators or salt cells, are devices used in swimming pools to generate chlorine by electrolysis of salt. Instead of adding traditional chlorine in the form of tablets, liquid, or powder directly to the pool water, a salt chlorine generator produces chlorine on-site from dissolved salt in the water.

Here's how it typically works:

1. Salt is added to the pool water: You add a specific amount of salt to the pool water. This salt is typically sodium chloride, the same salt you use in your kitchen.
2. Electrolysis process: The pool water containing salt passes through an electrolytic cell, which is typically installed in the circulation system. This cell contains metal plates, often coated with a precious metal like ruthenium or titanium. As the water flows over these plates and an electric current is applied, electrolysis occurs.
3. Chlorine generation: The electrolysis process breaks down the salt molecules into sodium and chlorine. The chlorine produced is then released into the pool water, effectively sanitizing and disinfecting it. This helps to control algae and bacteria, keeping the water clean and safe for swimming.
4. Reformation of salt: After the chlorine is released into the pool water, it eventually combines with other substances and forms new compounds. Some of these compounds eventually react with additional sodium in the water, reforming salt. This means that the salt concentration remains relatively stable over time, and you only need to add more salt as needed due to factors like splash-out, dilution from rainfall, or backwashing.

One of the advantages of salt chlorine generators is that they provide a continuous and steady supply of chlorine, reducing the need for frequent manual addition of chlorine. However, it's important to monitor the salt levels in the pool and adjust as needed, and the system requires regular maintenance, including cleaning the cell to prevent scaling.

It's worth noting that while a saltwater pool is often considered gentler on the skin and eyes compared to traditionally chlorinated pools, it's not "chlorine-free." The generator simply produces chlorine in a different way.